Bulls GM Forman: No rift with Rose's camp

Bulls general manager Gar Forman reiterated Saturday there is no communication rift between Derrick Rose's camp and the organization regarding the return date for the All-Star guard from his left knee injury.

"We talk all the time -- high-level communication," Forman told the Tribune on Saturday before scouting the DePaul-Pittsburgh game at Allstate Arena.

Forman said he would not comment on an ESPN.com report Friday that a source said Rose has medical clearance to resume playing after suffering a torn ACL 10 months ago.

The Tribune reported the story caught Rose off guard as it appeared to place pressure on him to return. Medically, Rose actually received clearance on Feb. 18 to scrimmage full court. It was a decision that wouldn't have been made if there was a risk of re-injury related to the original tear.

Rose told reporters last month the organization is letting him decide when he is mentally and physically ready to play.

"(Rose) obviously has a big, big say in (when he returns)," Forman said. "From our medical staff to our training staff everybody remains communicating on a consistent basis, with the goal being getting him back on the floor, 100 percent ready to play."

Asked about Rose needing to clear the mental hurdle of not expecting immediately to play at his MVP-type level, Forman said: "That's with any player who misses time.

"(Rose) is doing great, he's right on schedule. He continues to make progress. And, again, when he's ready to play, he'll play."

Earlier published comments from Rose's older brother, Reggie, were critical of the Bulls organization for not adding more pieces before the trade deadline. But Forman insists the two camps remain in contact.

"From day one, the communication has been consistent and it has been very encouraging," he said.